In Jainism, "tapas" (austerities or spiritual practices) are essential for purifying the soul and progressing towards moksha (liberation). However, Jain philosophy emphasizes that there isn’t a shortcut or "fastest" way—sincere, steady effort according to one's capacity is vital. The ultimate goal is to destroy all karmas binding the soul.

The two main types of austerities in Jainism are:

1. External Tapas (Bahya Tapas):

• Anashana: Fasting (complete abstinence from food)
• Unodari: Eating less than one’s hunger
• Vritti-sankshepa: Limiting the variety and quantity of food
• Rasa-parityaga: Giving up favorite foods
• Kaya-klesha: Practicing physical endurance (e.g., tolerating heat, cold, discomfort)
• Sanlinata: Practicing solitude and meditation

2. Internal Tapas (Abhyantara Tapas):

• Prayaschitta: Repentance or atonement of past mistakes
• Vinaya: Cultivating humility and respect for elders, teachers, and monks
• Vaiyavritya: Rendering selfless service to ascetics and the needy
• Svadhyaya: Study of scriptures and self-reflection
• Vyutsarga: Renunciation of attachment to the body and material things
• Dhyana: Deep meditation on the soul and its nature

Key to Achieving Moksha:

• Follow the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya): Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
• Practice Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
• Regularly observe Samayik (periods of meditation and equanimity), and Pratikraman (ritual of repentance and self-correction).
• Seek guidance from spiritual teachers and scriptures, and gradually increase austerities as your capacity grows.

Important Note: Jainism teaches that tapas must be accompanied by pure intentions, right knowledge, and non-attachment for them to be effective. Mechanical or showy austerities do not lead to moksha. Sincerity, compassion, and non-violence are crucial.

Summary: To progress rapidly towards moksha, practice both internal and external tapas with the guidance of the Ratnatraya, prioritize non-violence in thought, word, and deed, and cultivate deep self-awareness and detachment.